The Residence at Valley View Estates

Written by TRACY NICHOLSON
Photos by DAN FRANCIS PHOTOGRAPHY

Fresh from the BIA’s Fall Parade of Homes, we’re taking a Thomsen Homes tour of three beautiful abodes in Fargo’s newest premier community, The Residence at Valley View Estates. On our first stop, we introduce you to Rebecca Rydell, a beloved interior designer, mom, NDSU alum, and now, President of Thomsen Homes. Rebecca is no stranger to building beautiful spaces... or building momentum. With over two decades of blazing the trail, she brings equal parts vision and heart — shaping not just homes, but the future of Thomsen Homes.

**MEET THE PRESIDENT**

Rebecca Rydell’s May naming as Thomsen Homes’ new president was no surprise — she’s been a pacesetter in the construction industry for over 20 years, as a Director of Design and a skilled interior designer within both residential and commercial new construction and remodeling. Rebecca succeeds Niels Thomsen, who has since transitioned into a new role as President of BluPeak Group, the parent company of Thomsen Homes, founded in 2007.

“Rebecca’s empathetic leadership, exceptional communication, and ability to empower those around her make her the ideal person to lead Thomsen Homes into the future,” said Chris Thomsen, Thomsen Homes Founder and BluPeak Group CEO.

As an NCIDQ-certified Interior Designer and 2006 NDSU alum, Rebecca has led teams and projects across North Dakota and Minnesota, with additional work spanning California, Oregon, Colorado, and Florida. In just four short years at Thomsen Homes, her leadership has been instrumental in refining the homebuilding process, streamlining operations, and enhancing the client and team experience.

Beyond the build, Rebecca gracefully balances professional and personal life, as a proud mom to Ruby and Henley and stepmom to Brady. “My husband, Alex, and I also co-own Hanson Runsvold Funeral Home, which keeps us connected to the community in a very meaningful way. Our life is full of kids’ activities, sports, and family time. Music is also a big part of our lives—whether it’s making our own, supporting Alex’s band, Poitin, or traveling to see favorite musicians. We also love spending time at Lake Metigoshe and traveling to see family and friends. Our faith and church community keep us grounded and uplifted through it all.”

Despite the fast pace of life, Rebecca slows down to volunteer and mentor, supporting community and emerging leaders through NDSU programs, NDID, Hope Lutheran Church, and BIO Girls. She has also been involved in the National Association of Home Builders, Rotary International, The Chamber, and the Council for Interior Design Qualification.

In a traditionally male-dominated industry, Rebecca has mastered the execution of projects with both precision and creativity. “I believe everything starts with a strong foundation — clear communication, detailed processes, and aligned expectations. From there, we can build with confidence and even have fun along the way,” said Rydell. “Our commitment to a stress-free, joyful building experience will always remain the same. My goal is to create homes that balance function, beauty, and affordability, while also supporting our trade partners and team through solid framework behind the scenes.”

To Rebecca, experience isn’t the only thing that matters; it’s also the people who have inspired the journey. “I feel really fortunate. My father, Kevin, taught me the value of hard work through his over 50 years in plumbing and heating. My husband, Alex, has been a daily encourager and the reason I made the leap into Thomsen Homes in 2021,” said Rydell. “My mother, Merri Jo, inspired my love of design and creativity during the 30 years I had with her. Leaders like Chris and Niels Thomsen, Susan Ray-Degges, Shannon Simon, Erik Hatch, and Hari Panjini, as well as organizations like the Rotary, Carpet One, and the design/build community, have all shaped me. And perhaps most importantly, my clients have been some of my greatest teachers— pushing me to hold high standards, teaching me lessons along the way, and often becoming lifelong friends.”

Rebecca credits her rewarding career start to the Interior Design program at NDSU, which she says fueled her passion for construction, professionalism, and creating meaningful spaces. “The program challenged me to think critically, communicate effectively, and uphold a high standard of design,” added Rydell. “Without that foundation, I don’t think I’d be where I am today—it shaped not only my career but also how I approach leadership in this industry.”

“I feel incredibly honored and excited to step into this role,” said Rydell. “I’m mindful of the visibility of being a woman in construction— especially as president—and I see it as an opportunity to lead with authenticity, accountability, and care. My goal is to support our dedicated team members, strengthen relationships with our trade partners, and, most importantly, provide a positive, joyful homebuilding experience.”

THE RESIDENCE

Welcome to Fargo’s newest premier community, The Residence at Valley View Estates. Located in a highly sought-after south Fargo neighborhood, the development fuses refined architecture, elevated landscaping, and high-end finishes, and, thankfully, no special assessments. “Every home feels thoughtfully designed and truly upscale,” said Rydell. “What excites me most is the sense of connection this neighborhood offers — it’s centrally located and close to schools, shopping, and parks, yet it still feels like its own special place with a masterplanned design that includes walking paths and green spaces.”

“Centrally located land in Fargo is hard to come by for new construction, which is why we’ve master planned this rare piece for only 17 homes. With no specials, an HOA, and placement in the West Fargo School District, just blocks from Liberty and Independence, this is more than a neighborhood — it’s a once-only opportunity,” added Thomsen Homes’ Lauren Huff.

Home #1 — 3606 Decorah Way South, Fargo

Our first stop in The Residence is a Thomsen Homes 2570 SF Two-Story plan with a main- floor primary, two-and-a-half baths, and three upper bedrooms. Here, the great room extends to 18 feet in a dramatic, double-volume design, with a fireplace and walnut slat wall that draws the eye to the upper bonus loft.

The stunning kitchen showcases a custom slatted walnut range hood, Cambria quartz countertops and backsplash, artisanal lighting, and a fusion of Warm Stone-painted and stained alder cabinetry.

“What excites me most is the sense of connection this neighborhood offers — it’s centrally located... yet it still feels like its own special place with a masterplanned design that includes walking paths and green spaces.” Rebecca Rydell Thomsen Homes President

At the heart of the city, this high- end home delivers far more than a chef’s kitchen, walk-in pantry, office, and spa-style primary, offering a sod yard, landscaping, sprinkler system, and black stainless steel kitchen appliances all included. The home also features an oversized garage and unfinished basement ready for customization.

“I love the way spaces are being designed for flexibility,” added Rydell. “For example, a front office can easily become a guest bedroom or a creative space for kids. One of my favorite areas is what we call the “scullery”— a modern take on the mudroom. It’s a prep space off the kitchen that might include laundry, extra storage, or a prep sink. These spaces also tend to showcase more playful finishes—bold colors, fun tiles, or even wallpaper—while the rest of the home stays more neutral.

Home #2 — 3612 Decorah Way South, Fargo

Our second stop is Thomsen Homes’ five- bed, three-bath 1665 SF Rambler plan with a finished basement. Here, main-level living includes a primary suite, two bedrooms, and a full bath. The well-curated kitchen mixes Windfresh White perimeter cabinets and a darker, Griffin-painted square island, complete with quartz and laminate countertops, pantry storage, gold hardware, and an apron-front sink. For additional entertaining and guest space, the home’s beautiful lower level features two bedrooms, a full bath, storage, and a spacious family room designed with arched inset detailing, a second fireplace, and a custom quartz wet bar with a wine fridge and floating shelves.

Home #3 — 3618 Decorah Way South, Fargo

Our final stop is a 2191 SF Two-Story plan, offering four upper bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, an upper laundry, and an unfinished basement. Floor to ceiling, this home’s kitchen is high-contrast drama, with upper chestnut- stained alder cabinets and lower slate-stained cabinetry. The home also features a large island, quartz countertops, a walk-in pantry, an office, and a cozy breakfast nook. A standout feature of this home is the living room’s dark olive focal wall with shiplap and charcoal brick accents surrounding a 36” gas fireplace. Another highlight is the upper-level primary suite and spa-style bath, including a striking walnut wood slate and tile shower design.